Guidelines for advising student organizations
Mitchell Hamline Student Organizations are an integral part of the law school experience. We encourage student organization leaders to build community, provide visible and practical support. Student organizations are encouraged to lead and participate in innovative programming and events that are rich in culture, bringing individuals together from various racial, ethnic, social-economic, and religious backgrounds as well as those with disabilities, sexual orientation, political affiliations, and veteran status.
Advisors take on different responsibilities depending on the needs of the organization. It is important to remember that an advisor is not an administrator, executive officer or leader of the organization. Some common roles of the advisors are mentors, team builders, motivators, role models, educators, institutional policy interpreter, a source of information and ideas, and a liaison between the organization, Student Services and the Office Culture and Inclusion.
The role of the faculty/staff advisor is to help groups meet their stated goals. Advisors should review the organization’s constitution and bylaws to clearly understand its purpose and determine how to best assist the group. Advisors should understand the organization’s mission, goals, and activities, helping the group interpret institutional policies, procedures, and guidelines. An advisor accepts responsibility for keeping informed about activities of the organization and for advising officers of the organization on the appropriateness and general merits of policies and activities. Your role as advisor is to mentor, team builder, motivate, be a role model and educator.
- Maintain regular contact and involvement with the organization’s officers
- Knowledgeable of the mission, goals and purpose of the organization
- Consult with the groups leadership to assist them with speaker/programs, and events
- Provide support and advice if needed
- Recommend speakers in your area of expertise
- Students should inform you of their meetings, and activities